Saturday 6th December was a shining example of what happens when a community comes together with open hearts and a spirit of giving. With immense generosity, Sky Studios Elstree offered us their beautiful venue, their security team, their hospitality and their wholehearted support — allowing Gratitude to host our most magical Christmas Grotto yet.
Across two vibrant sessions, running from 1pm to 3pm and again from 4pm to 6pm, families from across Borehamwood poured through the doors. In total, we welcomed 276 adults and 385 children — 686 guests who filled the space with warmth, excitement and festive energy. Supported by 25 dedicated Gratitude volunteers and two wonderful Santas, every corner of the event came alive with joy and connection.
From the moment families entered, children were immersed in creativity and imagination. Our activity stations offered a chance to write heartfelt letters to Santa, craft Christmas decorations, colour festive pictures and make cards filled with love. Laughter echoed through the room, and the magic of the season felt truly alive. We were also honoured by a visit from Mayor Dan Ozarow, who joined us in celebrating the generosity and care that made this event possible.
Every child received the full Santa experience — a small wrapped gift, a candy cane, an Official Nice List Certificate and, perhaps most exciting of all, a Golden Ticket. This ticket opened the door to our enchanting Santa’s Shop, where each child could choose a brand-new toy. These gifts were made possible by the extraordinary kindness of community donors, toy drives led by local partners and the exceptional support of Sky Studios Elstree, who helped ensure every age group, from newborns to teenagers, had something special waiting for them. Gratitude also purchased additional gifts to make sure that nobody was left out.
Throughout the event, Sky Studios continued to uplift the atmosphere with their warm hospitality. Their team served hot chocolate, tea, coffee and muffins for the adults, while children enjoyed soft drinks, crisps, sweets and cookies. The care and professionalism of the Sky Studios staff created a safe, welcoming environment where families could relax, feel valued and share in the festive spirit.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To every volunteer, donor and supporter, you helped make this day extraordinary.
And we extend a special and heartfelt thank you to the Sky Studios Elstree team — especially:
Grace Downer, Marcus Watling and Peter Okell
— whose dedication, kindness and hands-on support brought this event to life.
Your generosity didn’t just support an event; you created moments of magic, connection and joy for hundreds of families.
This day embodied Gratitude’s ethos:
When we serve, we rise. When we give, we grow. When we come together as a community -abundance flows.
Together, we spread Gratitude.
Together, we create magic.
Together, we build a stronger community.
